We know how easy it is to get so swept away with the fun facts we overlook the more practical elements of travelling, such as making sure our passports are in date! There is nothing worse than the last-minute rush and the frenzied organising that, had we just planned ahead, could have easily been avoided. For those travelling with children, the panic is made even worse and the paranoia of becoming a real-life McCallister travel nightmare is too much to bear.

With this smart and savvy travel checklist, stay one step ahead of the game and start your trip as you mean to go on!

Do I Need a Visa for Cuba?

It seems like an obvious place to start, but do make sure your passports are in date and that you have located them at least a week before your trip. Although there are ways of getting an emergency passport, they double in price and are a lot of hassle to obtain.

It is always best to check with your local Cuban Embassy or foreign office to ensure you have the most relevant and up-to-date information, based on where you are travelling from. For example, British tourists are required to apply for a tourist card before setting off. As well as tourist visas, you can apply for a Cuban Transit Visa, Student Visa and a Temporary Work Visa.

Vaccinations and Health

Travellers must have valid travel insurance to cover medical expenses, and those visiting from nations affected by yellow fever or cholera are required to present a vaccination certificate issued at least 10 days before entering Cuba.

Each of the hotels in our Cuba collection offer medical services and have a list of international clinics to refer guests to.

Airports in Cuba

Perhaps an obvious choice is the Jose Marti International Airport, located just 9 miles south of Havana. But there are other options if you’re exploring beyond the capital. For those travelling to Varadero, the Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport is in prime location, just a 40-minute drive to the coastal resort. Those who are staying in Holguin may wish to fly into the Frank Pais International and closest to Villa Clara is the Santa Clara Airport.

Hotels in Cuba

When it comes to luxury hotels, we here at Condé Nast Johansens are an authority! With a range of carefully selected properties spread across Cuba, you will be sure to fall head over heels.

A watery playground for the kids and first-class hospitality are just the beginning! Stunning sandy beaches flank this luxury resort in the coastal town of Varadero and there is an impressive offering of fun-filled activities and dreamy amenities to keep the whole family happy!

A little way up the coast lies the beautifully elegant Paradisus Princesa del Mar, with beach access, pool, sea views from the bedrooms and on-site spa. As an alternative, why not stay in the Suite Presidencial bungalows, with a hammock and your very own terrace to enjoy?

Ideally located on the Villa Clara coast, this luxury hotel and spa resort is perfect for watching sunsets, enjoying some much-needed downtime and taking in the ambience of the sublime surroundings. Guests are met by their own personal butlers and will receive VIP treatment from start to finish.

Christopher Colombus himself claimed Cuba as “the most beautiful land eyes have ever seen”, and it is not hard to see why when you visit Paradisus Río de Oro. As well as providing a butler service and personalised hospitality, the hotel is superbly located for exploring the region’s coral reefs, setting off on an action-packed hike or dipping your toes in the warm, blue waters.

Getting About

While you may decide to hire a rental car for the duration of your trip, you may wish to ask your hotel for information about local taxi services. After all, the designated driver may wish to have at least one night off!

Or some fun alternatives:

Discover the sites and wind up off the beaten track on bicycle. As well as an opportunity to stumble across something new, it is a pleasurable way to travel.

Book a catamaran tour in Varadero, where you can witness the multi-coloured wonders of the underwater coral reefs, jump into the sea to swim with dolphins and go snorkeling among the fish.

Horseback riding is a surefire way to get the blood flowing and unleash your inner-cowboy! All across Cuba you can experience the thrill, just ask the concierge desk at your hotel for more information.

Not for the faint-hearted, try the unique zip line route that will send you flying over Las Terrazas village and Lago del San Juan, close to Varadero.

Weather

December-February

March-May

June-August

September-November

21°C

23°C

26°C

24°C

Dry Season: November-April

Wet Season: May-October

For most the time Cuba is completely safe weather wise, but we do advise checking for hurricane warnings.

As you can see, with a little bit of foresight and planning, your trip to Cuba can go from good to great! Avoid unnecessary hassle and stress and make the most of your vacation.

Be sure to tag us in your holiday photos on social using #CNJohansens, and we’ll share our favourite posts with our community. Enjoy!